Sustainable & Affordable Summer Entertaining at Goodwill

June 24, 2024

A pineapple tablecloth with tropical leaves plates and glassware on the table.

Photo credit to Goodwill Lakeville

Summer is the perfect time to gather with friends and family, enjoy the warm weather and create memories. You can get more for less at your neighborhood Goodwill, scooping up pre-loved tableware, décor and more to make your event sustainable and affordable!

Here are some tips to make the most of your summer entertaining on a budget:

1. Decorations: Create a show-stopping table setting by mixing and matching unique plates, glasses, vases and candles from Goodwill. String lights and lanterns together to create magical moments for your nighttime events. Get more ideas for your summer entertainment from local influencer, Gladys Tay on social media.

A red and green watermelon bowl with lemons in it.

A watermelon bowl with lemons in it on a table.

2. Furniture and Seating: If you need extra tables and chairs, check out your neighborhood Goodwill for picnic tables, folding chairs and blankets to keep your guests cozy at night by the bonfire.

3. DIY Décor: Fill mason jars with fairy lights/candles or find fabric, some one-of-a-kind props to create a fun DIY photo booth for your guests.

4. Entertainment: Find preloved board games, cards and outdoor games like bean bags to enjoy with friends and family. Goodwill also has movies, CDs and media with prices starting at just $1.49.

A lawn chair with pillows on it and a side table next to it with serving dishes.

An outdoor table with dishware on it with fairy lights hanging above.

Shopping at Goodwill is sustainable and affordable by giving donated items a new life. Plus, by donating and purchasing at Goodwill, you help support our nearly 20 career and training services that help over 5,500 Minnesotans get equitable access to jobs. Learn more here and happy summer entertaining!